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  July 18, 2023
• • Featured • Announcements

2023 NYAAC Advocacy Scholarship Recipients

2023 NYAAC Advocacy Scholarship Recipients: Emma Jenks and Abbie Ainslie! 

The New York Animal Agriculture Coalition (NYAAC) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 NYAAC Advocacy Scholarship: Emma Jenks and Abbie Ainslie. These two outstanding individuals have demonstrated their dedication and passion for animal agriculture, and their accomplishments have already made a significant impact on our industry. Just like the previous scholarship recipients, Emma and Abbie are shining examples of the next generation of advocates for agricultural sustainability and progress. 

Emma Jenks, a 22-year-old who has already completed both an associate and bachelor’s degree, hesitated to apply for this scholarship initially. She felt that as a more mature individual, she might be taking opportunities away from graduating seniors who are equally deserving of support and recognition. However, Emma recognized the importance of furthering her education to better serve her community, especially the young people interested in agriculture. She believes that by improving herself and expanding her knowledge, she can provide better services and education to benefit and support the future of aspiring agriculturalists. Emma's desire to continue her education is driven by her commitment to the youth who represent the future of agriculture. Ms. Jenks will further her studies in Extension Education online via Colorado State University. Winning this scholarship will not only enhance her personal and professional growth but also enable her to make a difference in the lives of countless others through her work and daily life. 

For Abbie Ainslie, growing up on a small dairy farm in rural upstate New York provided her with firsthand experience of the challenges faced by members of her community. Abbie's parents instilled in her the values of hard work and responsibility from a young age, making her aware of the financial hardships many individuals and families in her area endure. As she prepares to embark on her college journey at Cornell University, Abbie recognizes the significant financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. While she is confident in her work ethic and ability to contribute to her college tuition, this scholarship will play a vital role in helping her avoid excessive debt and make ends meet. As an aspiring agricultural educator, Abbie understands the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. Winning this scholarship will not only allow her to achieve her academic goals but also provide her with opportunities to expand her horizons socially and build a strong network of professionals. She looks forward to the diverse perspectives she will encounter and the chance to travel abroad, broadening her knowledge of agriculture on a global scale. 

Both Emma and Abbie embody the spirit of the NYAAC Advocacy Scholarship, which aims to support and empower young individuals who are passionate about agriculture and committed to making a positive impact in the industry. Their unique experiences, motivations, and aspirations serve as an inspiration to us all. By investing in Emma and Abbie, we are investing in the future of agriculture and the lives they will touch through their work, advocacy, and daily interactions. 

We congratulate Emma Jenks and Abbie Ainslie on their well-deserved scholarships and wish them the best of luck as they continue their educational journeys. Their dedication and commitment to the agricultural community are truly commendable, and we have no doubt that they will go on to achieve remarkable things. The NYAAC Advocacy Scholarship has once again found two extraordinary individuals who will carry the torch of advocacy forward and make a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape.